Best Christmas shows and pantomimes in London 2024

Discover some of the best Christmas theatre London has to offer over the festive season.

In December, London turns into a winter wonderland, offering a dazzling array of Christmas shows throughout the holiday season. From enchanting London pantomimes that spread festive cheer to elegant ballets filled with magical beauty, there’s something for everyone. Delight in classic tales with a seasonal twist on the West End, marvel at graceful dance performances, or lose yourself in captivating theatre plays. London’s Christmas shows are the perfect way to celebrate the holidays and create lasting memories.

Book the best Christmas shows in London 

Book the best Christmas shows and pantomimes in London

A group of ballerinas dance through falling snow in The Nutcracker.

Many London Christmas shows are yet to release tickets but there are still plenty of popular shows to book now. Plan ahead and secure your spot at these top festive performances. 

Discover more shows below, checking back nearer the time to buy your tickets.

Christmas theatre shows in London

A Sherlock Carol at the Marylebone Theatre

Theatre show poster for a sherlock carol in london.

This Christmas, head to the London West End for A Sherlock Carol, a thrilling mystery where ghosts of the past intertwine with the present. Many years after Ebenezer Scrooge discovered the true meaning of Christmas, the grumpy Dickens character mysteriously disappears. Enter the brilliant detective Sherlock Holmes, who is called upon to solve the case on a dark Christmas Eve. Don’t miss this captivating blend of classic literature and detective intrigue, perfect for the holiday season.

Put on your detective hat and book your tickets now.

Robin Hood and the Christmas Heist at the Rose Theatre, Kingston

This Christmas, experience a classic tale with a twist with Robin Hood and the Christmas Heist. Rumour has it that the Sheriff of Sherwood is planning to cancel Christmas! As the first snowflakes fall, the citizens have little to celebrate, with the Sheriff squeezing every penny from them. But little do they know, the legendary Robin Hood is plotting a daring heist to restore joy and cheer to the season.

Book your tickets now and join an action-packed experience.

Maddie Moate's Very Curious Christmas at the Apollo Theatre

Beloved children's TV presenter Maddie Moate makes her stage debut at the Apollo this Christmas with A Very Curious Christmas, based on her bestselling book. Prepare for a festive extravaganza as Maddie leads an interactive show filled with exciting experiments and holiday-themed tricks. Dive into the fascinating world of Christmas traditions and uncover the answers to all your pressing questions.

Book your tickets now for this festive extravaganza.

Slava's SnowShow at the Harold Pinter Theatre

Rediscover the magic of childhood at Slava's SnowShow, a spectacular blend of drama and laughter that has captivated audiences for decades. This enchanting production revives the art of clowning in the most delightful way, offering an escape filled with antics and inviting you to indulge in a night of joyous silliness.

Book your tickets now for an evening of pure delight and enchantment.

Christmas ballets in London

The Nutcracker at The London Coliseum

Dancer Ivana Bueno performs on the stage of the London Coliseum where snow falling.

See more than 100 ballet dancers and musicians bringing Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker to life on the London Coliseum stage. Marking its annual return, this classic show follows Clara and her Nutcracker doll on a magical adventure where they meet all sorts of characters. This year, the Coliseum presents a fresh, dazzling production set in Edwardian London, featuring an exciting chase after the menacing Mouse King. 12 Dec-12 Jan

Book your tickets to this special festive ballet show now.

Circa's Duck Pond at the Royal Festival Hall

This Christmas, experience a ballet like no other with Circa's Duck Pond. This innovative production offers a modern twist on the classic Swan Lake, blending breathtaking circus stunts with mesmerising dance to create a unique performance that transcends traditional genres. Watch as stunning acrobatics and awe-inspiring aerials merge with the elegance of ballet, reimagining the timeless tale. 19-30 Dec

Book your tickets now for this world class ballet now.

Christmas shows for kids in London

Room on the Broom at the Lyric Theatre

Official poster for Room on the Broom, showing a witch and her cat flying through a room on a starry night.

Iggety ziggety zaggety zoom! Hop on board the Christmas cheer and see the stage adaptation of Julia Donaldson’s beloved bestseller, Room on the Broom. Follow the adventurous witch and her cat as they embark on a magical quest to fight a fearsome dragon, all while picking up hitchhikers along the way. Will they triumph and return victorious? 

Book your tickets now and find out.

Father Christmas Needs A Wee! at the Arts Theatre

This December, see one of the best Christmas pantomimes for kids in London with the adaptation of Nicholas Allan's book: Father Christmas Needs A Wee! at the Arts Theatre in Leicester Square. At each house he visits on Christmas Eve, Santa finds different types of treats, milk and cookies amongst favourites, and finds himself in need of using the toilet, so much that he forgets to deliver some presents. 7-24 Dec

Book tickets to Father Christmas Needs a Wee! now.

Stick Man at the Leicester Square Theatre 

Cast of stick man dressed in Christmas outfits with props, including Santa Claus figure.

The Leicester Square Theatre brings Julia Donaldson’s loveable Stick Man back to life this Christmas. Follow his adventures as he leaves the family tree, a trip that is not without chaos and mischief, made all the more spectacular with music, puppetry and dance. 3 Dec-5 Jan

Book your tickets now and follow the misadventures of Stick Man.

Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out at Theatre Royal Haymarket 

Official poster of Peppa Pig's Fun Day Out, featuring Peppa Pig and Mummy Pig on the beach.

Peppa, George, Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig enjoy an exciting day out visiting the zoo and also the beach for a special party in Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out at Theatre Royal Haymarket. Full of fun songs, dance and muddy puddles, this family show also features more characters from the hit series, including Miss Rabbit, Suzy Sheep and Danny Dog. 28 Nov-5 Jan

Book tickets now for Peppa Pig's Fun Day Out at Theatre Royal Haymarket. 

The Smartest Giant in Town at the St Martin's Theatre

Meet George, a giant with a big heart, who decides he needs a new wardrobe for a smarty-pants look. See The Smartest Giant in Town at the St Martin's Theatrea musical adaptation of the bestselling book by Julia Donaldson, tells the moving story of a giant in his quest to start anew, only to stumble across a series of animals in need of his help... or shall we say his brand new clothes! 29 Nov-5 Jan

Book your tickets now and see the puppet show The Smartest Giant in Town. 

Best Christmas pantomimes in London

Potted Panto at Wilton’s Music Hall

Official poster for the Potted Panto, featuring cross-dressed characters on a green background.

Join the fun at Wilton's Music Hall for a mad-cap ride with your favourite characters from the world of pantomimes, including CInderella and Sleeping Beauty. Potted Panto brings back to the stage seven of the best loved pantomimes in what is sure to be an all laugh out loud evening.The Olivier Award-nominated show is the perfect occasion for a family day out this festive season, delighting children and parents alike. 4 Dec-4 Jan

Book tickets for Potted Panto now and embark on an extravagant adventure.

Robin Hood at the London Palladium

Journey to the enchanting Sherwood Forest at Robin Hood as it arrives at the London Palladium this Christmas. The ultimate pantomime adventure on the London West End featuring Jane McDonald as Maid Marion and Julian Clary as Robin Hood. Join Robin and his band of Merry Men on their escapes through the Sherwood Forest where adventure and laughter await. With dazzling performances, stunning costumes and incredible special effects sets, this production promises a joyous and unforgettable holiday treat. 7 Dec-12 Jan

Pinocchio at Theatre Royal Stratford East

Meet the little wooden boy with big dreams at Pinocchio this Christmas at the Theatre Royal Stratford East. Poor toymaker Geppetto makes a wish upon a star and is granted his wish when his wooden puppet Pinocchio is brought to life, but the path to becoming a "real boy" is a tricky one. Join Blue Rinse Fairy and Krik Krak the cricket as they try to keep Pinocchio on the straight and narrow as he navigates his strange new world. 23 Nov-4 Jan

Beauty and the Beast at the Richmond Theatre

A tale as old as time, Beauty and the Beast makes its way to the stage of the Richmond Theatre. One of the most romantic pantomimes, expect a spectacular and enchanting production perfect for the whole family. Expect beautiful costumes, stunning scenery epic special effects and the chance to come together to share the magic of live theatre. 7 Dec-5 Jan 

Find more shows and musicals in London this festive season. 

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